Tenant counselors help residents overcome housing challenges

03.06.2026News

Are you having difficulties paying your rent? Do you need support in managing everyday life? Tenant counselors provide guidance and support in a variety of life situations to help residents continue living in their homes as smoothly as possible.

The role of tenant counselors is to support VAV residents so they can remain in their homes despite different challenges. For many residents, these challenges involve difficulties with rent payments and the resulting risk of eviction.

“We do not have ready-made solutions. Instead, we work together with residents to find the options that best suit their individual situation”, say VAV tenant counselors Mervi Rytkönen and Noora Seinä.

“It is always best to contact us as early as possible, as that gives us more options for finding solutions”, they emphasize.

Finding solutions together for rent payment difficulties

Once a resident gets in touch, the tenant counselor and resident explore available options together. The smaller the rent debt, the more alternatives there are.

”Our primary goal is to create a payment plan together with the resident. If it appears that the resident’s current financial situation does not allow for this, we look at where additional support might be available”, Mervi explains.

”The larger the debt, the more likely it is that changes and sacrifices in everyday spending will be necessary. It is important to remember that it is never too late to make changes, even if doing so may require more effort and resources”, she continues.

If residents have concerns beyond financial difficulties, these issues are also discussed and they are directed to appropriate support services.

”We often refer residents to social services. Comprehensive support is often more effective than focusing solely on financial matters”, Noora notes.

Support for other everyday housing concerns

Residents who meet with tenant counselors may face challenges beyond financial difficulties. Tenant counselors also work with situations where, for one reason or another, living arrangements are not proceeding in accordance with rules and regulations.

”This may involve difficulties in maintaining the apartment or health-related challenges that affect neighbors”, Noora explains.

”Loneliness, anxiety, or other personal circumstances can also have an impact on housing. We may not always have the solution, but we can explore different options together”, Mervi adds.

However, tenant counselors do not act as mediators in disputes between residents. In such cases, assistance is available from organizations such as the Centre for Residential Peace, Asumisrauhan keskus.

Asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of

Mervi and Noora emphasize that no one should feel ashamed or guilty about seeking help. Tenant counselling is available to all VAV residents.

”Many people apologize to us for being in debt, even though they are often the ones who have suffered the most because of the situation. There is no need to apologize”, says Mervi.

Recognizing a difficult situation and accepting help are the first steps toward positive change.

”If your expenses exceed your income, it may be necessary to take a fresh look at your everyday life. That is not easy, but you do not have to do it alone”, Noora says.

”You can also contact us if you do not know where to start. We will go through the options together and, if necessary, direct you to additional support services”, Mervi adds.

What if you are concerned about a neighbor?

Many different situations can raise concerns about a neighbor’s wellbeing. Today, anyone can submit a welfare concern notification to social services if they are genuinely worried about another person’s wellbeing or ability to cope with everyday life.

”Social services are the right authority to contact when a neighbor’s behavior or wellbeing causes concern. We cannot make a welfare concern notification on behalf of a neighbor. The person who is concerned must submit the notification themselves”, Noora reminds.

VAV has provided tenant counselling for nearly 30 years

VAV’s tenant counselling service was a pioneer in Finland when it was established. VAV, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, launched the service in 1998, nearly 30 years ago. Initially, it was part of the Havukoski–Koivukylä Urban Project. During the early years, the work was known as social property management, but the title was soon changed to tenant counselling.

Current tenant counselors Mervi and Noora have worked in their roles at VAV for 15 years. Both are professionals in the field of social services.

Over the years, they have encountered a wide variety of situations. What makes a good workday for them?

”The most rewarding moments are when a resident’s life gets back on track. The sense of joy and success on behalf of the resident is truly immense”, says Mervi.

Noora and Mervi encourage all VAV residents to contact them whenever support is needed.

 

VAV Group’s 40th anniversary year will be highlighted throughout the year across our channels and activities. Follow our communications to learn more!